Origin
Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum (A.Br.) Gams, commonly known as Abyssinian pea, is a subspecies of the Pisum sativum. It is believed to have originated in Ethiopia and spread to other parts of the world from there.
Common Names
Abyssinian pea is known by a variety of names, including Ethiopian pea, African pea, and field pea. In Ethiopia, it is known as 'miracle pea' due to its ability to grow in poor soil conditions.
Uses
Abyssinian pea has various uses, both culinary and medicinal. It is commonly consumed as a food crop in Ethiopia, where it is used to make stews and soups. The plant is also used as animal feed due to its high protein content. In traditional medicine, Abyssinian pea is used to treat various ailments, including respiratory infections and stomach ailments. The plant is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
General Appearance
Abyssinian pea is an annual plant that reaches heights of up to 90cm. It has a sturdy and branching stem, with leaves that consist of two or three pairs of leaflets. The plant produces white or pink flowers that develop into elongated pods containing spherical seeds. The seeds are usually green or yellow, and they can be eaten raw or cooked. The plant is well-adapted to poor soil conditions and can thrive in both dry and moist environments.
Light Requirements
Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum (A.Br.) Gams grows best in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but growth and yield may be reduced.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum (A.Br.) Gams growth is between 15°C and 25°C. Temperatures above 30°C can cause plant stress and reduced yield. The plant can withstand brief periods of frost but extended exposure to freezing temperatures may be detrimental.
Soil Requirements
Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum (A.Br.) Gams grows best in well-draining soils with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and capable of retaining moisture without becoming waterlogged. The plant is sensitive to soil salinity and should not be grown in soils with high salt levels.
Cultivation methods
Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum (A.Br.) Gams, commonly referred to as Abyssinian peas, are cool-season vegetables that thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. They require full sun exposure and can be grown directly from seeds or transplants. The soil pH should be between 6.0 to 7.5, and the ideal temperature for germination is between 10°C to 18°C.
Watering needs
Abyssinian peas require regular watering to ensure consistent growth. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogging can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering will depend on the weather conditions and soil type. Typically, the plants require around 1 inch of water per week. During dry spells, they may need to be watered more frequently.
Fertilization
Abyssinian peas require regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and to improve crop yield. A balanced fertilizer containing equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season. Organic fertilizers can also be used, such as a mixture of compost and manure.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Abyssinian peas, as they are self-supporting. However, if the plants become too dense, it is advisable to thin them out to promote airflow around the leaves and stem. Deadheading the flowers can also improve plant growth and encourage the development of more pods.
Propagation of Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum (A.Br.) Gams
Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum (A.Br.) Gams, commonly known as the Abyssinian pea, is a cool-season legume that is grown for its edible pods and seeds. There are several methods for propagating Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum, including:
Direct Seeding
Direct seeding is the most common method for propagating Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum. Seeds can be planted directly into the soil once the soil temperature has reached at least 10°C (50°F). Seeds should be planted 2-3 cm (1 inch) deep and spaced about 5 cm (2 inches) apart. Seeds should germinate in 7-14 days.
Transplanting Seedlings
If you don't want to sow seeds directly, seedlings can be started indoors and transplanted outdoors once they are large enough. Seeds can be started in trays or pots filled with a seed-starting mix. Once the seedlings have grown their first true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors. Seedlings can be transplanted with a spacing of 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) between plants and 60-90 cm (24-36 inches) between rows.
Cuttings
Although less common, Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum can also be propagated with cuttings. This method is not commonly used because the plant is an annual and does not lend itself well to this type of propagation. The best time to take cuttings is when the plant is in full growth. Cuttings should be at least 7 cm (3 inches) long, and have several leaves. Cuttings should be planted in a well-draining media and placed in a warm, light-filled area.
Disease Management
Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum (A.Br.) Gams can be affected by various diseases that might hamper its growth and yield. Following are some common diseases that affect the plant:
- Aphanomyces euteiches: It is a soil-borne oomycete that causes root rot in pea plants. The infected plants show stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage this disease, crop rotation, and soil solarization can be practiced.
- Ascochyta blight: It is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and pods of pea plants. The infected parts show small, dark spots that may coalesce to form larger lesions. To manage this disease, resistant varieties can be used, and good sanitation practices should be followed.
- Fusarium wilt: It is a fungal disease that affects the vascular tissue of the plant leading to wilting and death. To manage this disease, crop rotation, and resistant varieties can be used.
Pest Management
Pisum sativum L. forma abyssinicum (A.Br.) Gams can also be affected by various pests that might cause damage to the plant. Following are some common pests that affect the plant:
- Aphids: They are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant leading to stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage this pest, insecticidal soaps or oils can be used, or biological control methods such as ladybirds and lacewings can be employed.
- Cutworms: They are caterpillars that cut the plant stem at the soil level, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage this pest, physical barriers such as collars can be used around the base of the plant, or insecticide treatments can be employed.
- Pea leaf weevil: It is a small, greenish-brown beetle that feeds on the leaves of the pea plant. The damage caused by this pest appears as notches along the edges of the leaves. To manage this pest, insecticides can be used, or resistant varieties can be employed.
